The World Health Organization (WHO) assesses sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and breast cancer as health issues with profound impact worldwide, especially in low- and middle-income countries where diagnostic tests are largely unavailable. In higher-income countries where testing is available, it is often expensive and geographically inaccessible, and patients often need to wait a long time to receive results which leads to impeded follow-ups and incomplete care or treatment. Breast cancer is the top cancer in women worldwide, with its incidence increasing in the developing world due to higher life expectancy, increase urbanization and adoption of western lifestyles. Early detection improves outcomes and survival rates.

Hologic’s products focus on women care and are key in diagnosing and handling several diseases, from STIs to breast cancer. The company has several initiatives to improve accessibility such us offering its products in resource-limited countries in Africa at a reduced price. Hologic developed a Global Women’s Health Index which tracks women’s health over time and believes it will help improve equity and expand access to life-saving medical treatments in places around the world where it is needed most. Hologic contributes both directly and indirectly to the welfare of children. Directly because it has tests to detect pre-term birth risks. Indirectly because the World Bank states that research has shown that many maternal illnesses and lifestyle behaviour also affect children. Therefore, healthy mothers are key to the health and well-being of children.